The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #69983

Rebecca T. Parkin, PhD, MPH¹, Gordon Butte², Sarah Thorne², Daniel Kovacs², and Martha Embrey, MPH³. (1) Env. and Occ. Health, George Washington University, 2300 K St., N.W. #201, Washington, DC 20037, 202-994-1734, eohrtp@gwumc.edu, (2) Decision Partners, LLC., 6210 Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34243, (3) Environmental and Occupational Health, George Washington University, 2300 K Street, NW, Suite 201, Washington, DC 20037

Emerging contaminants in drinking water are a concern to public health, environmental and utility professionals. Identifying and communicating about these contaminants requires knowledge not only of the contaminants, but also people's associated interests and priorities. We conducted a series of investigations to develop new methods and knowledge about risk perceptions related to emerging contaminants in drinking water. We developed methods to identify emerging contaminants proactively, but report on those elsewhere. We applied a mental models approach to determine experts' and consumers' views of such contaminants. Des Moines Water Works (DMWW) professionals, related public health and environmental agency professionals, and a representative of the utility's Board were convened to assist in designing an expert model of DMWW's water system and communication practices. We used this model to design mental model interviews that were administered by phone and in person. While the telephone interviews were based on traditional mental models methods, the in-person interviews were conducted to assess customer's value and perceptions of Web-based materials on water quality. Although there were similar themes from each set of interviews, there were distinct, new findings as well. The factors that influence customers' conceptualization of "emerging contaminants" and judgments of water-related communications will be described. Insights will be provided to improve risk communication strategies for such contaminants.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. Identify at least 1 major factor that influence water utility customers' concept of "emerging contaminants"
• 2. Describe the health and other interests and priorities of water utility customers who use Web-based information sources
• 3. Explain what issues need to be addressed to improve Web-based water-related health risk communications

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.